Since taking charge at Villa Park, so far Lambert has failed to turnaround the fortunes of the stumbling Midlands club.

With that in mind, it appears that Lambert will be about to make wholesale changes of a number of his squad players, including the high earners and the old guard.

It is understood that Villa are planning at least two big signings in the January transfer window, but need to ensure some of the highest earners are off of the payroll before a move can be agreed for new players.